Elastic brace assembly and methods of use

ABSTRACT

Example embodiments of the brace assembly utilize an elastic cross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to provide progressive resistance to the extension, flexion or other movement of body parts about the joint. In some embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides a progressive resisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodiments of the assembly may be able to accommodate different joints, different size wearer&#39;s of the assembly and different tension settings such as for athletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace assembly may be used bilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with the requirements of some sports. Some embodiments of the mounting facilities may have through holes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/864,674 filedAug. 12, 2013; this application is a Continuation in Part App. of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258 filed Nov. 18, 2010, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/993,258 is the U.S. National Stage App. ofInternational App. No. PCT/US09/46183 filed Jun. 3, 2009, InternationalApp. No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/148,973filed Feb. 1, 2009 and International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 claimsbenefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/058,555 filed Jun. 3, 2008; thisapplication is a Continuation in Part App. of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/188,506 filed Jul. 22, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/188,506 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/466,909 filedMar. 23, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/188,506 is aContinuation in Part App. of International App. No. PCT/US09/67152 filedDec. 8, 2009, International App. No. PCT/US09/67152 claims benefit ofU.S. Pat. App. No. 61/262,723 filed Nov. 19, 2009, International App.No. PCT/US09/67152 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/263,737 filedNov. 23, 2009, International App. No. PCT/US09/67152 is a Continuationin Part App. of International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 filed Jun. 3,2009, International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat.App. No. 61/058,555 filed Jun. 3, 2008, International App. No.PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/148,973 filedFeb. 1, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/188,506 is aContinuation in Part App. of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258filed Nov. 18, 2010, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258 is theU.S. National Stage App. of International App. No. PCT/US09/46183,International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App.No. 61/058,555 filed Jun. 3, 2008 and International App. No.PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/148,973 filedFeb. 1, 2009; this application is a Continuation in Part App. of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/541,796 filed Jul. 5, 2012, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/541,796 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No.61/504,341 filed Jul. 5, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/541,796 is a Continuation in Part App. of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/188,506 filed Jul. 22, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/188,506 is a Continuation in Part App. of International App. No.PCT/US09/67152 filed Dec. 8, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/188,506 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/466,909 filed Mar.23, 2011, International App. No. PCT/US09/67152 claims benefit of U.S.Pat. App. No. 61/262,723 filed Nov. 19, 2009, International App. No.PCT/US09/67152 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/263,737 filedNov. 23, 2009, International App. No. PCT/US09/67152 is a Continuationin Part App. of International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 filed Jun. 3,2009, International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat.App. No. 61/058,555 filed Jun. 3, 2008, International App. No.PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/148,973 filedFeb. 1, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/541,796 is aContinuation in Part App. of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258filed Nov. 18, 2010, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/993,258 is theU.S. National Stage App. of International App. No. PCT/US09/46183,International App. No. PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App.No. 61/058,555 filed Jun. 3, 2008 and International App. No.PCT/US09/46183 claims benefit of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/148,973 filedFeb. 1, 2009; and this application incorporates by reference all of theabove referenced applications in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTINGCOMPACT DISC APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to joint braces that canhelp prevent the hyperextension, flexion or undesirable movement of ajoint, and more specifically relates to brace assemblies and methodsutilizing an elastic cross strap that assists in preventing undesirablemovement of the joint.

2. Prior Art

Braces are often utilized to support joints when damage, deformation,surgery or the like has caused the joint to be instable. Sports,physical labor and everyday physical movement can create strains andinjuries to joints such as the shoulder, elbow, back, wrist, ankle andknee. Specific to the knee, most of the running, jumping, cutting ortwisting sports today have the risk of damaging the knee. These injuriesfrequently involve a tearing the ACL in the knee. Many injures to theknee joint have a mechanism of injury of hyperextension in which the ACLis stretched or torn. Many methods have been employed to prevent thisaction to the knee and prevent the injury to the ACL. Taping techniquesas well as rigid braces have been designed to prevent this condition.

One common method of treatment and prevention for these injures today isthe use of the rigid braces. Common to most, if not all, of thesedevises for use on the knee are, adjustable metal hinges on the medialand lateral side of the knee. Rigid arms on each side connect the hingesto curved thigh and calf pieces or cuffs. A series of Velcro strapsattached to these rigid side pieces then wrap around the leg to mountand hold them in place with the cuffs and the hinges. Adjusting thehinge from allowing extension or hyperextension blocks the knee frommoving into to these positions quite well.

With respect to these rigid braces however, many sports have rules inwhich players cannot have any metal or rigid devices on any part oftheir body to compete due to metal or hard structures that may causeinjury to other players. One of these sports is soccer, which is alsoone of the most popular sports in the world. Additionally, with theintroduction of bracing both knees for prevention of injury, the bracingmust have a very low profile on the knees to prevent the braces fromcatching against each other during competition.

Another technique of treating and preventing joint injuries includestaping techniques. While reinforcing joint strength, taping typicallydoes not involve rigid braces that cause problems with sporting rules.

Prior art embodiments of braces having strap elements that crossposterior to the knee joint include U.S. Pat. No. 4,817,588 filed onJul. 1, 1987 to Gary Bledsoe (Bledsoe) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,368,297 filedon Oct. 22, 1999 to Jan F. A. Smits (Smits) both of which areincorporated by reference in their entirety. Bledsoe discloses arestraining strap network positioned entirely behind the knee that hasto cooperate with additional brace elements including hinges andconnecting means to connect the brace elements to the wearer's leg.Bledsoe does not disclose embodiments of the strap network extendinganterior to the limbs about the joint. Smits discloses a brace having astrap that crosses at the back of the knee that like Bledsoe is entirelybehind the knee and has to cooperate with other brace elements. Smitsalso specifically uses stop portions in a hinge to limit extension ofthe brace elements. Smits does not disclose limiting extension of thebrace with the strap.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following summary is included only to introduce some conceptsdiscussed in the Detailed Description below. This summary is notcomprehensive and is not intended to delineate the scope of protectablesubject matter.

Example embodiments of the elastic brace assembly utilize an elasticcross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to limit theextension of limbs about the joint. The cross strap has elasticproperties that allow it to provide progressive resistance as the strapis stretched. The elastic cross strap assembly is positioned from across origin behind or in the fossa of the joint to attachment points onmounting facilities on either side of the joint such that the assemblyprovides an opposing tensile force that limits the extension of themounting facilities and the limbs about a joint.

In example embodiments for other joints, the brace assembly may providea resisting force that influences appendages about a joint. For example:for an ankle, the brace can be used to prevent dorsiflection, plantarflexion or rolling of the ankle; for a back, the brace can be used toprevent or support bending about the waist; for an elbow, the brace canbe used to prevent hyperextension; and for a shoulder, the brace can beused to control movement of the humerus about the shoulder such as torestrict abduction and external rotation.

In example embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides aresisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodimentsof the assembly are able to accommodate different joints, different sizewearer's of the assembly and different tension settings such as forathletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace can be usedbilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with therequirements of some sports.

Some embodiments of the brace assembly provide an elastic knee braceassembly having an upper mounting facility for positioning the braceassembly about the thigh area of a user's leg, a lower mounting facilityfor positioning the brace assembly about the shin area of the user'sleg, a elastic cross strap having a cross origin, and the cross strap isattachable to the upper and lower mounting facilities whereby the crossstrap limits the extension of the upper mounting facility and the lowermounting facility about the joint when the cross origin is positionedposterior to the user's knee.

Some embodiments of the elastic brace assembly comprise an uppermounting facility and a lower mounting facility, at least one elasticcross strap coupled to the upper mounting facility and lower mountingfacility and the elastic cross strap further forming a cross originbetween the upper and lower mounting facility whereby the cross strapprovides a resistance force to an extension of the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility from the cross origin when thecross origin is positioned in a fossa of a wearer's joint.

In some embodiments, the upper mounting facility comprises an upper padand an upper strap configured to wrap around an upper limb of a jointand the lower mounting facility comprising a lower pad and a lower strapconfigured to wrap around a lower limb of a joint of a wearer.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap is coupled to the uppermounting facility at an attachment point lateral or medial to ananterior point of the upper mounting facility and the elastic crossstrap is coupled to the upper mounting facility at an attachment pointlateral or medial to an anterior point of the upper mounting facility.

In some embodiments, the brace assembly further comprises at least onebuckle capable of removably coupling the elastic cross strap to theupper pad or the lower pad and capable of adjustably coupling theelastic cross strap to the upper pad or the lower pad.

In some embodiments, the wearer's joint is a knee joint whereby theelastic cross strap provides the resistance force to the extension ofthe upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility from thecross origin when the cross origin is positioned in the popliteal fossaof the knee joint.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap is coupled to the uppermounting facility at an attachment point at an anterior point of theupper mounting facility and the elastic cross strap coupled to the uppermounting facility at an attachment point at an anterior point of theupper mounting facility.

In some embodiments, the upper mounting facility comprises an upper padand an upper strap configured to wrap around an upper limb of a jointand the lower mounting facility comprises a lower pad and a lower strapconfigured to wrap around a lower limb of a joint of a wearer.

In some embodiments, the upper mounting facility comprising an upper padand an upper strap configured to wrap around an upper limb of a joint,the lower mounting facility lower pad and a lower strap configured towrap around a lower limb of a joint of a wearer, the upper strap and thelower strap are made of an elastic material and the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility are coupled with a mechanicalhinge.

In some embodiments, the inner surface further comprises a plurality ofthrough holes extending through the upper pad and the lower pad toprovide further frictional engagement of the upper and lower limb of thewearer.

In some embodiments, the upper strap and the lower strap are made of anelastic material and the upper pad and the lower pad are made of anelastic material.

In some embodiments, the upper pad and the lower pad have an innersurface configured to frictionally engage the upper and lower limb ofthe wearer and the inner surface having an indentation pattern. In someembodiments, the inner surface further comprises a plurality of throughholes extending through the upper pad and the lower pad to providefurther frictional engagement of the upper and lower limb of the wearer.In some embodiments, the inner surface further comprises a plurality ofstrips extending between the through holes to provide the firstprogressive resistance force.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap is configured to provide adynamic, progressive or configurable resistance force as the resistanceforce.

In some embodiments the upper mounting facility and the lower mountingfacility are not coupled with a mechanical hinge.

Some embodiments of the elastic brace assembly comprise an uppermounting facility and a lower mounting facility, one of the uppermounting facility or the lower mounting facility comprising an elasticpad configured to provide a first progressive resistance force at leastone elastic cross strap configured to provide a strap progressiveresistance force and the elastic cross strap coupled to the uppermounting facility and lower mounting facility whereby the firstprogressive resistance force and the strap progressive resistance forceprovides a combined progressive resistance force to an extension of theupper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility about a wearer'sjoint. In some embodiments, the inner surface further comprises aplurality of through holes extending through the elastic pad to providefurther frictional engagement of the upper and lower limb of the wearerand the inner surface further comprises a plurality of strips extendingbetween the through holes to provide the first progressive resistanceforce. In some embodiments, the upper mounting facility comprises afirst elastic pad configured to provide the first progressive resistanceforce, the lower mounting facility comprises a second elastic padconfigured to provide a second progressive resistance force, the elasticcross strap forms a cross origin between the upper and lower mountingfacility and the combined progressive force comprises the firstprogressive force, the second progressive force and the strapprogressive force.

Some embodiments of the elastic brace assembly comprise an uppermounting facility and a lower mounting facility, at least one elasticcross strap coupled to the upper mounting facility and lower mountingfacility and the at least one elastic cross strap further forming across origin between the upper and lower mounting.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap is configured to provide aprogressive change in a resistance force on the upper mounting portionand the lower mounting portion.

In some embodiments, the resistance force is a configurable resistanceforce.

In some embodiments, the resistance force is a progressive resistanceforce provided by the elastic cross strap comprising a composite oftensile elements.

In some embodiments, the composite of tensile elements comprises a firsttensile element having a first tensile strength and a first restinglength, a second tensile element having a second tensile strengthgreater than the first tensile strength and a second resting lengthlonger than the first resting length whereby a first resistance force isprovided through a first stretch range up to the second resting lengthand a second resistance force is provided in a second stretch rangebeyond the second resting length.

In some embodiments, the resistance force is a configurable resistanceforce provided by the elastic cross strap being one from a groupconsisting of: the elastic cross strap having one of a plurality ofdifferent lengths, the elastic cross strap having one of a plurality ofdifferent tensile elements, the elastic cross strap comprising one of aplurality of elastic materials having different tensile properties, theelastic cross strap comprising an adjustable length of the elastictraining portion and a first end of the elastic cross strap having oneof a plurality of attachment points on the lower mounting facilitydefining a lower resistance point and positioning a second end of theelastic cross strap on one of a plurality of attachment points on theupper mounting facility defining an upper resistance point.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an elastic brace assemblycomprising an elastic cross strap attached to an upper mounting facilityand a lower mounting facility and the elastic cross strap furtherforming a cross origin between the upper and lower mounting facilitieswhereby the cross strap provides a resistance force to an extension ofthe upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility about thecross origin when the upper and lower mounting facilities are positionedabout a joint and the cross origin is positioned at a point relative tothe joint and the point is on a side of the joint opposite a directionof the extension. In some embodiments, the point is one of: a locationin an antecubital fossa of a wearer's elbow; a location in a poplitealfossa of a wearer's knee; a location proximal to a talus bone of awearer's ankle; a location proximal to a lumbar area of a wearer's back;or a location in the axillary fossa of a user's shoulder.

Some embodiments of the methods of use provide a method of supporting awearer's joint, the method comprising the steps of securing a firstportion of an elastic cross strap about one body portion joined to asecond body portion at a wearer's joint, positioning the elastic crossstrap about the joint to form a cross origin at a point of the joint andsecuring a second portion of the elastic cross strap about the secondbody portion at the joint whereby the elastic cross strap is capable ofproviding resistance to an extension of the wearer's body portions aboutthe joint.

In some embodiments of the methods of use, the joint may be one of: anelbow; a knee; a shoulder; a back; or an ankle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantagesand features of the invention are obtained, a more particulardescription of the invention briefly described above will be rendered byreference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in theappended drawings. Understanding that these drawing depict only typicalembodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered tobe limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explainedwith additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyshowing a shin shell;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the embodiment the brace assembly ofFIG. 1A mounted on the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyhaving an upper and lower mounting facility;

FIG. 3 illustrates the force patterns of one embodiment of the crossstrap when mounted around a knee;

FIG. 4A illustrates a front view of one embodiment of the brace assemblycomprising a single cross strap about the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of the brace assemblycomprising a single cross strap about the knee of a wearer;

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyhaving an x-shaped cross strap cooperating with a sleeve;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the brace assemblyshowing the cross strap attachment to the upper and lower mountingfacilities on a sleeve;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of the braceassembly with the side brace elements extended;

FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a brace assemblypositioned as if it were put on a wearer's leg;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of the lowerportions of a brace assembly with a shin shell positioned as if it wereon a wearer's leg;

FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of another embodiment of the braceassembly;

FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the braceassembly mounted about a wearer's knee;

FIG. 11B illustrates a front view of the embodiment in FIG. 11A as if itwere on a wearer's leg;

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate different views of embodiments of an anklebrace assembly;

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly for awearer's back;

FIG. 14A-14C illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly for awearer's shoulder;

FIG. 15A-15B illustrate one embodiment of a brace assembly about awearer's elbow;

FIG. 16A illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of a bracefor a wearer's knee;

FIG. 16B illustrates different views of the embodiment of FIG. 15A for awearer's knee;

FIG. 17A illustrates a medial view of an example embodiment of a bracefor a wearer's knee;

FIG. 17B illustrates a lateral view of an example embodiment of a bracefor a wearer's knee;

FIG. 17C illustrates an anterior view of an example embodiment of abrace for a wearer's knee;

FIG. 17D illustrates a posterior view of an example embodiment of abrace for a wearer's knee;

FIG. 17E illustrates a lateral view of an example embodiment of lowermounting facility for a brace for a wearer's knee;

FIG. 17F illustrates a lateral view of an example embodiment of an uppermounting facility for a brace for a wearer's knee;

FIG. 18A illustrates one example embodiment of the under surface of amounting facility material showing diamond shaped indentations between aflat surface, here an interlaced flat surface, that increases thefriction of the brace element with the user's skin or underclothes; and

FIG. 18B illustrates a cross-sectional profile of the mounting facilitymaterial of FIG. 18A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Although example embodiments are described in detail for use with kneebracing and reinforcement, it is understood that the methods and systemsdescribed can be used for similar medical situations where support ofand resistance to moving joints may be needed. Examples of embodimentswith other joints such as but not limited to the shoulder, elbow, backand ankle are also described and illustrated below. Notwithstanding thespecific example embodiments set forth below, all such variations andmodifications that would be envisioned by one of ordinary skill in theart are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Some embodiments of this elastic brace assembly comprise a non-rigid orsemi-rigid brace utilizing an elastic cross strap to provide aprogressive resisting force to joint movement such as hyperextension.Some embodiments of this brace assembly may include a flexible sleeve orother traditional brace components. Although some embodiments of theassembly do not need side hinges, metal upright stays or braces andhinges, it is contemplated that some embodiments of the brace assemblymay also include these elements.

One Embodiment of the Brace Assembly:

Although it is contemplated that embodiments of the assembly can supportmany different types of skeletal joints such as elbows, ankle, shoulder,backs, wrists or knees, the illustrative examples below will use anembodiment directed to support a person's knee. Therefore, references toanatomical portions of the wearer's knee are for illustration purposesand not as a limitation.

Example embodiments of this new brace assembly comprise at least oneelastic hyperextension cross strap, at least one upper mounting facilityand at least one lower mounting facility. In these embodiment,generally, the upper mounting facility positions and secures the braceassembly about the thigh area of a user's leg, the lower mountingfacility positions and secures the brace assembly about the shin area ofthe user's leg and the elastic hyperextension cross strap attaches tothe upper and lower mounting facilities whereby the elastic cross strapcan provide progressively increasing resistance to the extension of theuser's knee when the elastic cross strap is positioned posterior to theuser's knee. In some embodiments, the upper and lower mounting facilityare defined entirely by the elastic cross strap to help secure theassembly to the user's leg. In some embodiments, the upper and lowermounting facilities are separate elements defined by portions of braceelements, such as upper and lower cuffs/pads or side braces, cooperatingwith the elastic cross strap.

In some embodiments, the brace assembly stabilizes the knee fromhyperextension in the 5-25 degree range.

As shown in the example embodiments of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the elasticcross strap 160 is at least one elongated element able to provide aprogressive tensile resistance force and capable of creating a crosspattern that creates a cross origin and cross strap arms. The elasticcross strap also comprises means to attach ends of the straps, the crossstrap arms, to the upper and lower mounting facilities. In someembodiments, the elastic cross strap comprises the combination ofmultiple elongated elastic straps, cross strap arms, that may beconfigured to create the cross pattern that creates the cross origin andcross strap arms. In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap comprisesa single cross strap that may be configured to create the cross patternthat creates the cross origin and cross strap arms. In some embodiments,the elastic cross strap comprises a single cross strap that has crossstrap arms coming from a pre-defined or integrated cross origin.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap comprises one or morestraps of pre-determined lengths and elastic cross straps are selectedbased on the length needed for that wearer. In other embodiments, theelastic cross strap has adjustment elements that allow the cross strapto be adjusted to fit the wearer and provide different resistanceproperties to help prevent joint extension.

The elastic cross strap can be made from material to provide resistanceto stretching in one direction. In one example embodiment, the elasticcross strap is a pliable elastic material that provides progressiveresistance to stretching and as the material stretches, the resistanceto stretching increases. As an example, the resistance properties ofembodiments function similar to the resistance properties of a rubberband. In one embodiment, the elastic material is similar to elasticsports tape. In other embodiments, the elastic material can comprise arubber material, a plastic material or a spring that can provideresistance properties similar to those of a rubber band. It is alsocontemplated that the elastic cross strap may comprise a combination ofelastic and non-elastic material that still provide the elasticproperties required of the strap. As an example, and not for limitationpurposes, these combinations may comprise combinations or laminatesincluding cloths, fabrics, threads, struts or other materials combinedwith an elastic material through sewing, adhesives, Velcro® typeattachment or even simple adjacent placement to elastic materials. Thesecombinations or laminates may comprise multiple materials that canincrease the adherence of the cross strap to itself or other materialsand may be comprise combined materials at particular, not all areas ofthe cross strap. Combinations of elastomeric materials with varyingresistance properties are also contemplated.

The length, width and elastic properties of the elastic cross strap canbe varied based on the properties desired for the wearer and/or thesport the wearer will participate in. Although some of the discussionrelates to a single elastic cross strap, it is understood that multipleelastic cross straps or straps can be used to provide the functionalproperties of the elastic cross strap. More than one elastic cross strapor strap can be used such that their properties combine to provide thedesired resistance properties.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the elastic cross strap 160 has two cross straparms 162 and 164 respectively configured to attach to a lower arm end toa lower mounting facility 120 at a lower attachment point. The lowermounting facility further comprises securing elements, such as straps124 to engage the wearer's lower limb as well as points to attach thiselement to the other elements of the assembly. Embodiments of the lowermounting facility include but are not limited to a hard shell, pad,cuff, portions of the strap, portions of a sleeve or any other elementcapable of mounting the brace to the wearer's limb. In this embodiment,the lower mounting facility 120 is a shin shell 121 mounted anterior tothe knee and just below the wearer's knee with one or more securingstrap 124. In this embodiment, the tibial shell can be made of aflexible material or when desired, it can be made of more rigid materialto provide some tibial protection to the wearer.

Means to attach or couple the elastic cross strap arms to the mountingfacilities include, but are not limited to common attachment means suchas: rigid fasteners such as rivets, adhesives or sewing; slidableattachment points such as slots or channels, pivoting fasteners such asrivets or buttons; and removable fasteners such as Velcro, buttons,buckles, snaps or hooks. It is contemplated that the means ofattachment, such as with Velcro straps or buckles, will let the crossstrap be tightened or loosened as desired for comfort, support orspecific resistance reasons.

As shown, the attachment of the elastic cross strap in FIG. 1 is throughlower attachment points that comprise multiple openings 122 in the shellpositioned so that the elastic cross strap arms 162 and 164 weavethrough the shell and extend up towards the wearer's thigh. Wheninstalled as in FIG. 1B, these elastic straps extend from the anteriortibia at the patellar attachment and wrap posterior with one wrappingmedial and one wrap laterally to attach to the wearer's anterior thighpad. This “X-strap” configuration creates elastic straps running from ananterior tibial pad 121 with one strap medial and one strap lateral tocross like an X in the popliteal fossa 103 behind the knee 105, thencoming back to an anterior of thigh pad 140 in the middle to upperone-third of the thigh.

It is also contemplated that the shin shell can be configured to allowthe same straps, or additional straps, clips or bands, to wrap aroundthe wearer's lower leg to secure the lower arms of the elastic crossstrap.

The upper mounting facility positions the brace assembly about the upperlimb of a wearer's joint. Embodiments of this facility can similarlyinclude those possible for the lower mounting facility. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 1, the upper arms of the elastic cross strapare configured to connect to each other and perform the function of theupper mounting facility 140, much like a thigh pad in a traditional kneebrace. In this embodiment, the thigh side connection is made byconnectors 146A and 146 B on the end of the upper arms extending up thewearer's thigh. As shown, this connection is made by complementary hookand loop type Velcro fasteners on the thigh end of the straps but anyconnection or coupling means can be used such as but not limited tocomplementary hooks, buttons, buckles, slots, loops, adhesives or clips.In this embodiment, the thigh end of the straps can provide thefunctionality of a thigh cuff in traditional knee braces by wrapping thestraps around the wearer's thigh to help secure the assembly to thethigh. In the embodiment shown, sections of the upper arms also containoptional facility attachment elements defining a facility attachmentpoint 142 that allows the upper arms to attach to the upper mountingfacility in particular places such as the anterior position shown.Examples of attachment element can include all those possible for thelower mounting facility. In one embodiment, the attachment elementscomprise matching Velcro sections attached on the upper arms of theelastic cross strap. These sections are placed on the elastic crossstrap arms 162 and 164 in pre-determined locations that will allowproper positioning of the elements and help ensure the attachment can bemaintained anterior to the limb and towards a front portion of themounting facility.

For the embodiment of FIG. 1, the attachment point 142 functionsgenerally as an upper anterior resistance point and a point generallymid-way between the lower attachment points functions as the loweranterior resistance point.

In embodiments where the upper mounting facility comprises an upper pador thigh pad, as shown in FIG. 2, the thigh pad 240 can comprise anynon-rigid material that can engage the wearer's thigh and attach thispad to other elements of the assembly. Suitable materials for this padinclude but are not limited to cloth, cotton, plastic, nylon, mesh,leather and elastic materials. This pad may further include padding ormay be heat pliable, molded or contoured to be more comfortable for thewearer. The embodiment in FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of ananterior thigh pad 240 which can be shaped to the contour of the medialanterior thigh above the vastus medialis oblique.

FIG. 2 also shows that embodiments of the assembly 200 can include alower mounting facility 220 having a tibial pad 221 with similarmechanical characteristics as the thigh pad 240.

In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the mounting facilities 220 and 240include at least one securing strap, here lower and upper securingstraps 224 and 244, operably connected to the facilities to secure themonto the wearer's limbs. Any means to secure the pads and tighten thepads onto the wearer's body is suitable. In one embodiment, a Velcrotype securing strap is attached to each of the pads and when the strapis secured to the pad around the wearer's limb, the pads are secured tothe wearer. Other suitable means to secure the facilities to wearer'slimbs include but are not limited to a sleeve around the limb and strapswith adjusting facilities such as buckles.

It is contemplated that in some embodiments, rather than connecting orcoupling the elastic cross strap 260 to the pads, the securing straps224 and 244 can also provide the attachment means for the pads to theelastic straps. For example, the securing strap may wrap all the wayaround the limb and have the attachment means so that when the securingstrap is secured to the pads, the elastic cross straps are attached tothe securing strap.

The elastic cross strap 260 is attached to the upper and lower mountingfacilities at upper and lower facility attachment points 242 and 222.This attachment can be made using any means that will secure the ends ofthe elastic cross straps onto the mounting facilities and is generallymade at a front portion of the mounting facility. As shown in FIG. 2,the elastic cross strap arms are permanently attached to the attachmentpoints 242 and 222 on the facility front portions 248 and 228 by rivetsat strap attachment points 276 and 286. Attachment means includes any ofthe attachment means already described. If the thigh pad is not used,the elastic cross straps can be wrapped around the wearer's thigh andconnected to themselves to secure the assembly to the wearer.

For the embodiment of FIG. 2, the attachment points 242 and 222 functiongenerally as the upper and lower anterior resistance pointsrespectively.

FIG. 2 also illustrates the adjusting facilities that can be used toadjust the length of the elastic cross strap. By adjusting the length ofthe elastic cross strap, the elastic tension and resistive properties ofthe cross strap can be adjusted. Adjustment element 278 comprises abuckle that allows the arms 272 and 282 of the elastic cross strap to beput through the buckle and adjusted. (An adjusting facility on the otherside of the brace can be provided but is not shown.) Examples ofsuitable adjusting facilities include but are not limited to buttons,Velcro, snaps or hooks or any type of adjustable connections that allowsa connection that can alter the length or resistance properties of theelastic cross strap. It is understood that providing elastic crossstraps of varying length is also another example of a suitable adjustingfacility.

FIGS. 1B and 2 illustrate the extension of the brace and the limbs aboutthe joint. FIG. 2 illustrates one example embodiment of a brace and kneewhere the brace and knee joint are slightly bent. FIG. 1B illustratesone example embodiment of a brace and a knee joint extended from aposition such as in FIG. 2. An extension of the brace or the limbs aboutthe joint, when used herein as a verb, is the action by which the braceor the limbs about the joint are extended from a bent position to astraight position (180° angle) or sometimes beyond a straight angle(e.g. hyperextension).

In some embodiments of this brace assembly, it is beneficial for theelastic cross strap to provide a sufficient resistance force to anextension of the limbs about a joint at or near an anterior point of thewearer's leg. This resistance force is applied to the limbs about ajoint by resisting an extension of elements of the brace itself betweenthe cross origin and the anterior resistance points. By resisting theextension of elements of the brace, such as the anterior resistancepoints about the cross origin, elements of the brace are able to helplimbs resist their extension about the bending axis of the joint. Thebending axis of the joint is the actual or conceptually equivalent pointof the joint about which the limb/body portions bend or rotate. When thecross origin is positioned posterior to the joint, which is posterior tothe joint's bending axis such as in a fossa of the joint, this typicallymeans that the anterior resistance point may be positioned anterior tothe joint at a front portion of the mounting facilities. The anteriorresistance point is typically the point at which the resistance force isapplied to the brace portion that applies that resistance force to anextension force applied to the brace by the extension of the limbs. Inmost, but not necessarily all embodiments, the anterior resistance pointis the same as the attachment points. For example, as represented inFIGS. 3A and 3B, this assembly benefits from a configuration thatmaximizes the tensile force that the elastic cross straps can provide.In FIG. 3A, the lines 372 and 382 represent the upper and lower elasticcross strap arms respectively of an elastic cross strap and the points376 and 386 represent their strap attachment points and point 366represents the cross origin. In the embodiment illustrated, the crossorigin 366 would be posterior to the joint bending axis. The attachmentpoints represent examples of the upper and lower anterior resistancepoints from which the cross strap provides the resistive force thatcounters the extension force caused by a joint extending. The line 309generally represents the front part of the wearer's leg. Using the upperstrap attachment point 376 as an example, the resistance force F1 thatupper elastic cross strap upper arm 372 provides at the upper anteriorresistance point can be translated into F1subX and F1subY forces asshown. Using trigonometric and static principals, the angle A1 allowsthe force to be translated in the X direction as F1subX=F1 (sin A1). Ascompared to FIG. 3B, where the angle A1prime of the elastic cross straparm 372 to 309 is less than A1, the resistance force F1subX to beapplied is less. Therefore, as designed, the attachment of the elasticcross strap onto the brace assembly towards the anterior, or frontportion of the brace, provides more resistance than known prior artbrace assemblies with straps that provide predominantly posteriorresistance points and smaller angles at A1. This positioning alsoreduces the force that would otherwise be put on the brace in thedirection of F1suby. By reducing this force, the forces that would tendto cause the brace mounting facilities to migrate towards each other arereduced.

The resulting angles shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B will vary for each patientgiven their size, strength in order to control extension of the joint.In some embodiments of the brace assembly, the angle from the lowerattachment point and upper attachment point about the cross origin (FIG.3A angle B1) can be in a range of about 50 to 160 degrees, 60 to 140degrees or 75 to 115 degrees.

In addition to providing superior resistance properties, embodimentsutilizing an elastic cross strap may also provide the benefit ofeliminating the immediate hard stop typical of prior art embodimentsthat use hard stop features such as in a hinge or with a non-elasticstrap. This lack of a hard stop helps prevent migration of the brace andreduces the jerking feeling making the brace more comfortable for thewearer. The inclusion of providing progressive resistance with theelastic cross strap provides additional benefits. The elastic propertiesof the cross strap can provide resistive properties earlier in themotion arch of the joint thereby controlling extension sooner.Additionally, the elastic properties can provide increasing resistancein a linear fashion as the joint goes from flexion to extension whichincreases neuromuscular control and causes the extensor muscles togradually strengthen which is good for joint stability.

In some embodiments, the elastic cross strap has a limiting resistancecapability. For these embodiments, the limiting resistance may beprovided by the elastic properties of the elastic cross strap reachingits maximum extension and therefore the cross strap provides a directresisting force to further cross strap extension. This limitingresistance may also be provided by having a non-elastic material used incombination with an elastic material whereby when the limitingresistance point is met, the non-elastic material is engaged and thatprovides the direct resisting force to any further extension of theelastic cross strap.

Other Embodiments of the Brace:

One embodiment of the brace assembly comprises a single elastic crossstrap mounted in a way that provides the functionality of the brace. Asshown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, this embodiment comprises a single elasticcross strap 460 that is wrapped around the wearer's shin 402 to createthe lower mounting facility 420, the arms of the elastic cross strap arethen wrapped behind the knee to cross in the popliteal fossa of the kneeto create the cross origin 466. The arms are then extended and wrappedaround the wearer's thigh 404 to create the upper mounting facility 440.

In this embodiment of the brace assembly 400, the wrapping around theshin 402 may start with the middle of the elastic cross strap 460 beingplaced in the back of the calf. The wrapping can continue around thelower leg once or multiple times. At the point that the elastic crossstrap is extended from a position anterior to the shin and then upbehind the knee. There may be elements to help define the strapattachment points 486 to assist in keeping the arms of the cross strapproperly positioned anterior to the joint. The wrapping around the thigh404 may also be done once or multiple times with attachment means orcoupling means such as hooks, bands, buttons, buckles, loops, clips,Velcro or straps to keep the straps together and define the strapattachment point 476. To close the elastic cross strap, any connectionmeans already disclosed, such as complementary hook-and-loop (Velcro)connectors can be used to secure the upper arms to each other. For theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the strap attachment points476 and 486 function generally as the upper and lower anteriorresistance points respectively.

Although the embodiment in FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an embodiment of asingle strap with two free ends, embodiments of one single strap in aloop are contemplated that can similarly be used as the brace assembly.

One embodiment similar to that in FIGS. 4A and 4B is shown in FIG. 10.This embodiment comprises an elastic wrap material such as latex orlatex-free Esmark Wrap sold by Medline Industries of Mansfield Mass.being used as the cross strap. The elastic wrap 1060 is positioned aboutthe joint as described with the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A and B andsecured about the wearer's leg by any type of securing means such as anadhesive tape 1012, securing the elastic wrap to itself by wrapping itaround the leg in multiple layers or by having a multiple propertyelastic cross strap that allows the strap to adhere to itself.

Another embodiment of the brace assembly utilizes a single elasticx-strap as the elastic cross strap. As shown in FIG. 5, the assembly 500has a single elastic cross strap 560 having a cross origin 566, upperarms 572, lower arms 582 and attachment points (shown in FIG. 6 asfasteners 673 and 683). This elastic cross strap functions similar tothe crossed single elastic cross strap. As shown, the elastic crossstrap arms have Velcro fasteners that act as adjustment elements 578 and588 on their end. These ends connect through loops 579 that are attachedto Velcro fasteners (not shown) on both the upper and lower mountingfacility. Adjustment element 578 is able to be pulled through the loops579 and secured to itself at different positions creating arms ofdifferent lengths. In one embodiment, this elastic x-strap is longenough to extend from the anterior tibia at the patellar attachment andwrap posteriorly with one arm wrapping medial and one wrapping laterallyto attach to the wearer's anterior thigh pad. This elastic “X-strap”configuration creates arms running from an anterior tibial pad with onestrap medial and one strap lateral to cross like an X in the poplitealfossa of the knee, then coming back to an anterior thigh pad in themiddle to upper one-third of the thigh.

Similarly, embodiments having two elastic straps can be made where twoelastic straps are used to create the elastic cross strap.

Embodiments of a brace assembly also include having a brace sleeve toprovide assembly elements. This type of embodiment is shown in FIGS. 5and 6. In FIG. 6, the upper and lower portions of the sleeve 696,portion 640 and 620, can function as the including the upper and lowermounting facilities respectively. The upper mounting facility 640 maycomprise a portion as the upper pad/cuff 641 with an upper strap 644helping secure the upper mounting facility 640 and cuff 641 to the leg.The lower mounting facility 620 may comprise a portion as the lowerpad/cuff 621 with a lower strap 624 helping secure the lower mountingfacility 620 and cuff 621 to the leg. The sleeve in these embodimentswill rest against the wearer's skin and may be made of an elasticmaterial. The surface of the sleeve that will touch the wearer's skin,the under sleeve, is a non-slick surface to frictionally engage thewearers limb. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the inner surface of thesleeve 696 comprises an open faced diamond shaped web weave thatfrictionally engages the skin and also allows portions of the skinsurface to be exposed. Other embodiments of the frictional surface ofthe under sleeve include but are not limited to high friction surfacessuch as rubber, felt, mesh, elastic material or any combination of thesesurfaces. It is contemplated that under sleeve material can be used sothat the under sleeve is in contact with the skin around the knee underthe elastic straps to help keep them in place.

As shown in FIG. 6, embodiments of the brace assembly 600 can includeadditional fasteners 673 and 683. These fasteners provide the attachmentbetween the upper and lower mounting facilities and the ends of theelastic cross strap 660 and function as the strap attachment points.With this configuration, the facility attachment points 642 and 622 onthe mounting facilities comprises an entire anterior area of the bracehaving hook-and-loop type fasteners that can match with the undersurface of the fasteners 673 and 683. In this configuration, theplacement of the fasteners 673 and 683 up and down length of the braceadjusts the effective length of the elastic cross strap about thewearer's knee. This adjustment can be used in cooperation with theadjustment from the adjustment elements 678 and 688 to adjust the lengthof the elastic cross strap. Although these additional fasteners can be aseparate element from the elastic cross strap and the cross strap arms,they function as an extension of the elastic cross strap.

Some embodiments of the brace assembly without metallic or rigidelements able to comply with current sporting regulations, such as theFIFA rules.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 also includes optional flexible uprights697 on one or both sides of the brace. An upright as used in thisdescription is a hinge that has a high degree of axial stiffness and ahigh degree of bending flexibility. Examples of suitable uprights wouldbe coiled spring cables, chain links or ball-and-socket links, planarstruts or flexible struts that prevent the upper and lower mountingfacilities from urging towards each other when the assembly is subjectedto the forces of the elastic straps. The upright has the capability tobend in one or more planes while not compressing. The upright can bedirectly connected to the pads, sewn into the sleeve or be attached toother elements that are connected to the pads to keep the pads fromurging towards each other. In these embodiments, suitable material forthe uprights include, but is not limited to metals, Kevlar or carbonfiber type construction that will provide flexibility but not let theupright compress. Suitable overall shapes for the upright include butare not limited to a flexible rod that easily allows flexing of the kneewhen the uprights are installed on the wearer's leg.

Embodiments of the brace assembly can also include traditional kneebraces elements such as upper and lower frames with central hinges aswell as structures for patellar control. The elastic cross strap couldbe added to these assemblies to provide additional support andhyperextension protection. As shown in FIG. 2, the elastic cross strap260 can function with a thigh cuff 240 and a tibia cuff 221. The elasticcross strap crosses behind the knee and the arms attach to the facilityattachment points 242 and 222 on the cuffs. The hinge 290 of the bracecan be of any type uses with traditional braces to include, but notlimited to monocentric hinges, polycentric hinges, flexible uprights orany other hinge commonly used in joint braces.

Embodiments of the brace assembly can also include an elastic crossstrap with a single rigid side strut and hinge or flexible upright. Forexample, this type of embodiment could be worn as a prophylactic braceon the lateral side of the knee to reduce knee injuries and reduce thechances of rigid brace elements colliding with each other andinterfering with the user's leg movement. In these embodiments, thecross strap can comprise any of the descriptions included herein and isattached to the side strut or upright using the attachments meansdisclosed. The single rigid side strut and hinge can be similar to anyof the side brace and hinge designs disclosed and the flexible uprightcan be similar to any of the flexible uprights disclosed in otherembodiments with or without a sleeve.

Additional embodiments of the brace assembly are shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and9.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of one embodiment of the brace assembly 700with the side brace elements 730A and 730B turned forward forillustration. In this embodiment, the upper and lower mountingfacilities are defined by upper and lower portions of multiple sidebrace elements together with connector elements. One side brace element(e.g. medial) comprises an upper portion 732A, a lower portion 734A anda hinge 790A that allow the upper and lower portions to pivot relativeto each other. Similarly, the other brace element (e.g. lateral)comprises an upper portion 732B, a hinge 790B and a lower portion 734B.This embodiment cooperates with an elastic cross strap 760 that isattached at various points to the side brace elements. As shown, thelower mounting facility is defined by the lower portion of both sidebrace elements (portions 734A and 734B) together with the portion of theelastic cross strap 760 attached to the lower brace portions. In asimilar fashion, the upper mounting facility is defined by the upperportions (732A and 732B) of the medial and lateral brace elementscooperating with portions of the attached elastic cross strap 760.

The composition of the side brace elements in this embodiment can be ofany rigid or semi-rigid material that can engage the side of a wearer'sleg, attach the side elements to the elastic cross strap and provide adegree of rigidity to the assembly when stationary or when the upper andlower mounting facilities pivot about the hinges. Suitable materialsinclude but are not limited to plastics, metals, composites or anycombination of these materials. The brace elements may further includepadding or may be heat pliable, molded or contoured to be morecomfortable for the wearer. As shown (FIG. 8, 837), the side braceelement includes an interior pad portion such as but not limited tofoam, rubber, cloth, cotton, plastic, leather or any combination ofthese materials. The pad portion provides a comfortable surface betweenthe more rigid side element portions and the wearer's skin. Sideattachment points and on the side brace elements can include any meansof attaching the elastic cross strap to the brace elements. As shown,one embodiment of the side attachment means comprises a series of slotssuch as 736A and 736B in the side brace elements. In this embodiment,the slots allow the elastic cross strap to be put into one slot such as736A and exit another slot such as 739A. This “weaving” of the elasticcross strap through the side brace element attaches that portion of thatelastic cross strap to that portion of the brace element. The sideattachment points may allow the elastic cross strap and brace elementsto be adjusted for each user. As shown, the weaving of the strap throughthe brace allows the strap to move within the slots and therefore adjustthe position and/or tightening of the brace on a wearer. Although notrequired, in some embodiments, the attachment means are offset as shownwith one means, typically the attachment means posterior to the joint,closer to the brace hinge and the other means, typically the means mostanterior, furthest from the brace hinge. This configuration assists inthe proper positioning of the cross strap within the brace and about thejoint. Although weaving through slots are shown as an example attachmentmeans in this embodiment, it is understood that any method of attachingthe elastic cross strap to the side brace element is anticipated such asbut not limited to hook-and-loop fasteners, hooks, buttons, clips,adhesives or any other attachment or connection means. When using theside brace elements, the side attachment points between the braceelements and the elastic cross strap do not always coincide exactly withthe configurations of attachment points as described above and shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 4, 6 and in particular FIG. 3. It is understood that withside brace embodiments, the resistance to hyperextension can still beperformed by the elastic cross strap that is wrapped around the frontportion of the wearer's leg. In configurations that have attachmentpoints about the side of side brace elements and the strap wraps aroundthe limb, the elastic cross strap defines an anterior resistance pointthat will typically lie somewhere about half-way between the elasticcross straps attachment to one brace element and the other (for example,between 739A and 739B). It is from this anterior resistance point of theelastic cross strap, that the attachment point and anterior resistancepoint benefits described in FIGS. 3A and 3B are gained.

It is understood that alternative shapes of side braces may be used. Forexample, and not for limitation, one embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and11B comprises brace assembly 1100 having a single lateral side braceconfigured with upper and lower paddle shaped side brace elements 1132and 1134 respectively, extending from the hinge 1190 and hooking towardsthe anterior side of the brace assembly. In this embodiment, the paddleshape provides some rigidity to the brace assembly while also helpingthe cross strap 1160 maintain a beneficial position anterior to thejoint providing a better anterior resistance point. Additionally,because only one lateral side brace is used, this can minimize thecollision of brace assembly elements that may otherwise occur with rigidor semi-rigid medial side brace elements. In this embodiment shown, theattachment means, such as slot 1139, can be positioned on the end of thepaddle so that it will allow both the attachment of the cross strapcoming from the lateral side of the joint, as well as help secure thecross strap coming from the medial side of the joint. As shown, the slot1139 is positioned lower on the paddle end so that the cooperation ofthe paddle end and the cross strap coming lateral helps position thecross strap portion going medial from the upper mounting facility sothat it is not urged towards the joint when put under tension. The sametype of configuration can be used on the lower paddle as shown. It isunderstood, that other means to guide the cross strap at the ends of thepaddles can be used such as but not limited to ridges, multiple slots,channels, rings or other attachment means. For example, in oneembodiment, the distal ends of the paddles can have two open slots thatare dimensioned to allow the cross strap to be easily put into the slotswhile the slots help prevent the cross strap portions in the slots fromurging towards the joint when the strap is put under tension.

The composition of the elastic hyperextension cross strap is similar tothe descriptions described for other embodiments. The composition,function and design of the elastic cross strap and other elasticcomponents of the brace assembly may be similar to the elastic portionsof the training brace assembly as described in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/541,796 filed Jul. 5, 2012 and published as U.S. Pub. No.2012/02700708 on Oct. 25, 2012 which application is herein incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

When assembled, as shown in FIG. 8 (with the wearer's knee), embodimentsof the brace assembly function similar to the embodiments describeherein. The upper mounting facility is shown generally as 840 and thelower mounting facility is shown generally as 820. The upper portions(832A and 832B) and lower portions (834A and 834B) of the brace elementscan pivot about the hinges 890. A portion of the elastic cross strap(860B) wraps around the front of the wearer's leg about the thigh,another portion of the elastic cross strap (860A) wraps around the frontof the wearer's leg about the tibia and the elastic cross strap crossesbehind the knee creating a cross-origin 866. The side brace elementshelp keep the position of the elastic cross strap as well as providesome rigidity to the assembly.

Shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, an optional securing strap 838 can be strappedaround the wearer's leg to help secure the brace assembly on the leg.The securing strap is secured to both of the side brace elements at asecuring point and can include a buckle 839 or other means toconnect/couple the ends of the securing strap. It is understood thatsecuring straps can be used on either the upper or lower portions orboth portions. The securing strap may also be used around the front ofthe wearer's leg if necessary and can be positioned at various locationsbetween the hinge and the distal end of the brace portions.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the brace assembly 900 with sidebrace elements can be integrated with embodiments similar to those shownin FIGS. 1A and 1B. As shown in FIG. 9, a shin shell 921 can be attachedto portions of the elastic cross strap 960 so that the shin shellprovides some protection to the shin of the wearer. As shown, the uppershaped edge 927 of the shin shell in embodiments can be shaped to alignwith the exterior shape of the tibial tubercle of the knee. As describedabove, the shin shell can also be made of a flexible material or whendesired, it can be made of more rigid material to provide some tibialprotection to the wearer.

One embodiment of the brace assembly further comprises configuring thetibial pad to function as an endo-skeleton such as with a wearer's shinguard, as may be required in a sport such as soccer, to support anteriortibia and anterior drawer control. FIG. 9 shows the shin shell attachedto a shin guard 929.

Although not necessary, it is contemplated that some embodiments of theassembly can be capable of being integrated with a patellar control-openpatellar donut as prescribed. In these embodiments, the assembly mayinclude straps for patellar subluxation that stabilizes the elasticcross strap or hinges.

Although the above description and terminology of the components of theembodiments above utilize the terminology of a knee, it is understoodand contemplated that the assembly can be applied to other joints. Forexample, and not for limitation, embodiments of the assembly can also beused with a person's elbow, back, shoulder or ankle. Such embodiments ofthe brace assembly are shown in FIGS. 12-16. For these otherembodiments, the terms “upper” and “lower” such as in describing themounting units, are still used to mean mounting units on sides of ajoint whether they are on opposite sides or relatively higher or lowerrelative to the joint or not. For example, in braces used for ashoulder, the upper mounting unit can be mounted about the torso orshoulder of the wearer and the lower mounting unit can be mounted aroundthe humerus. Similarly, in braces for an elbow, the upper mounting unitcan be mounted about the humerus and the lower mounting unit can bemounted about the radius and ulna. In braces for an ankle, the upper andlower mounting facilities may both be above the ankle, but the brace maystill function satisfactorily.

Additionally, for some of these alternative embodiments for joints otherthan knees, it is understood that the general description of theplacement of the brace elements about the joint accommodates differentjoints and accommodates the extension/flexion resistance the brace isintended to provide. Posterior placement of the cross origin generallymeans on the opposite side of the extension or flexion that the brace isresisting and anterior placement of elements such as resistance pointsis on the same side of the body part going into extension or flexion.For example, the posterior placement of the cross origin is on theopposite (posterior) side of the extension of the elbow even though thatside of an arm is generally anterior to the wearer's body when the armsare down. Similarly, the resistance points of the brace are on the sameside as the extension even though that side of the arm is typically onthe posterior side of the wearer's body.

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate one embodiment of a brace to be used on anankle. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12A, a single flexiblesleeve is wrapped tightly around the lower portion of the leg above theankle with two straps extending from the lower portion of the sleeve.The cross strap arms extend from the lower attachment point of thesleeve (lower mounting facility) through the cross origin and back tothe upper attachment point of the sleeve (upper mounting facility). Asillustrated in FIG. 12B, the lower portion of the cross strap arms 1282extend from the lower attachment point 1286 and the upper portion of thecross strap arms 1272 are attached to the upper attachment point 1276 atthe upper portion of the sleeve 1296 through an attachment means 1273such as, but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, clips, buttons,snaps or any other method of attaching. FIG. 12C illustrates how thecross strap arms are positioned under the foot of the wearer. FIG. 12Dshows how the cross straps form the cross origin 1266 on the lateralankle. FIG. 12E shows a front view of an installed brace showing how onecross strap 1272 passes anterior to the leg to attach medially to thebrace upper attachment point. FIG. 12F illustrates a rear view of aninstalled brace showing one cross strap 1272 passing posterior to theleg and attaching medially to the brace upper attachment point 1276. Thepositioning of the brace elements as shown, help rolling of the anklefrom outside to inside. Although the eventual lower attachment point forthe strap is above the ankle in some embodiments, the point of resistantforce (as described above in FIG. 3A-3B) for the lower portions of thecross straps can be at a point proximal to the bottom of the wearer'sfoot. In this embodiment, because of the relative location of the upperand lower attachment points relative to the cross origin, the anglesbetween the attachment points about the cross origin can be differentthan in other embodiments and still provide satisfactory results.

In some embodiments for the ankle, the lower mounting facility or thelower attachment point can located at or near the bottom of the wearer'sfoot. For these embodiments, the mounting facility may be a frictionalengagement of the strap with the bottom of the foot or an additionalelement such as a sole pad that also attaches to the strap.

Another embodiment could include a non-elastic portion of the crossstrap that extends from the bottom of the sleeve to a point proximal tothe sole of the foot such that the attachment of the non-elastic portionof the strap to an elastic portion functions as the lower attachmentpoint. An embodiment of this type may be configured so that the lowerresistance point is about where the sole of the foot transitions to themedial inside of the foot.

In some embodiments of the ankle, the brace can be positioned such thatthe cross origin is on the medial ankle to prevent the rolling of theankle from the inside to out. It is also contemplated that the brace canbe configured so that cross strap create a cross origin on the lateralankle as well as create a cross origin on the medial ankle to helpresist rolling of the ankle in either direction.

Although the embodiment in FIGS. 12A-12D resist rolling of the ankle, itis understood that other embodiments can be used to resist othermovement of the ankle. For example and not for limitation, the crossorigin can also be placed above the area of the talus bone of the anklewith the upper attachment point being at a position posterior to thetibia and the lower attachment point being near the bottom of the footto help resist dorsiflexion of the ankle.

Additional brace embodiments for the ankle are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate an embodiment of the brace for a wearer's backwhere the back is viewed as a joint. FIG. 13A illustrates a rear view ofa brace having a frame 1396 and a cross brace having a cross origin1366, arms 1382 and 1372 and the arms creating the upper and lowermounting facilities 1340 and 1320. The frame helps guide the cross straparms and provide some rigidity to help the mounting facilities andattachment points maintain their position on the back. The positioningof the cross origin in the small of the wearer's back helps resistbending forward of the wearer. As illustrated in FIG. 13A, it isunderstood that the cross straps can be integrated into portions of theframe (as shown) as well as be separate straps interoperating with theframe. FIG. 13B shows how the brace is mounted from the front of thewearer with the attachment points 1376 and 1386 being where the strapsattach to themselves as the upper and lower mounting facilities.Additional embodiments for the back are contemplated that include cuffs,frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as described herein.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate one embodiment of the brace for a wearer'sshoulder. As shown in FIG. 14A, the brace has a frame and attachmentpoints for an elastic cross strap. The frame has a medial 1496M, lateral1496L, anterior 1496A, superior 1496S and posterior 1496 (behind)portion. There are various openings 14960 designed into the brace forwearer comfort but still allow for the proper transfer of force withinthe brace. The positioning of this brace helps resist abduction andexternal rotation of the humerus. As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, thecross strap is configured such that a cross origin 1466 is positionedacross the torso from the shoulder being braced. In this exampleembodiment, the cross origin is about in the axillary fossa of theuser's opposite shoulder. As shown in the front view of FIG. 14B, fromthe cross origin 1466, cross strap arms 1472 and 1482 extend towards andattach to the attachment points 1476 and 1486 on the portion of thebrace functioning as the upper mounting facility 1440 and the lowermounting facility 1420. As shown, the upper mounting facility is locatedabove the shoulder joint and the lower mounting facility is locatedbelow the shoulder joint. As shown in the rear view of FIG. 14C, andconsistent with the other descriptions herein, the cross strap arm 1472that is attached to the lower attachment point in the front is the crossstrap arm 1472 that is attached to the upper attachment point 1476 inthe back and vice versa. Although not required, this embodiment containsguide rings 1439 through which the cross strap arms pass on the anteriorand posterior portion of the brace to help guide the cross strap arms.Additional embodiments for the shoulder are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate one embodiment of the brace for a wearer'selbow. As shown in FIG. 15A, the brace has a cross brace having a crossorigin 1566, cross strap arms and the arms create the upper and lowermounting facilities 1540 and 1520. The positioning of the cross originin the antecubital fossa of the elbow and the strap attachment points onthe other side of the arm helps resist hyperextension of the elbow.Additional embodiments for the elbow brace are contemplated that includecuffs, frames, sleeves, hinges, struts and other elements as describedherein.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate another embodiment of the brace for a wearer'sknee. As shown in FIG. 16A, this embodiment has a cross strap brace withan upper mounting facility 1640, lower mounting facility 1620 and across strap 1660 configured to create a cross origin behind the wearer'sknee to resist hyperextension. The cross strap 1660 may comprisemultiple cross straps as shows 1664 and 1662. The upper mountingfacility 1640 comprises an upper cuff 1641 with a portion of the cufffunctioning as a strap (shown in FIG. 16B as 1644) to secure the uppercuff 1641 to the leg. The lower mounting facility 1620 comprises a lowercuff 1641 with a portion of the cuff functioning as a strap (shown inFIG. 16B as 1624) to secure the lower cuff 1641 to the leg. Thisembodiment may optionally also comprise an additional upper cuff brace1641B, a lower cuff brace 1621B and a hinge 1690 capable of connectingthe cuff braces. FIG. 16B illustrates how elements of this embodimentare positioned relative to each other and the wearer's knee.

Additional embodiments of the elastic brace assembly are shown in FIGS.17A-17F and 18. Although these example embodiments are illustratedthrough the use of the elastic brace assembly on a knee joint, it isunderstood that some of these embodiments, as some of the aboveembodiments, may also be used on other joints such as but not limited tothe back, ankle, shoulder and elbow. Referring to FIGS. 17A-17D, inthese additional example embodiments, the elastic hyperextension crossstrap 1760 comprises two elastic straps 1762 and 1764 each having anupper arm 1772 and a lower arm 1782. The upper mounting facility 1740comprises an upper elastic pad/cuff 1741 and one or more elasticsecuring straps 1744 to secure the upper elastic pad to the leg. Thelower mounting facility 1720 comprises a lower elastic pad/cuff 1721 andat least one elastic securing strap 1724 to secure the lower elasticpad/cuff 1721 to the lower leg. The elastic hyperextension cross straps1762 and 1764 attach to the upper and lower mounting facilities wherebythe elastic cross straps provide progressively increasing resistance tothe extension of the user's knee when the elastic cross straps areproperly positioned posterior to the user's knee. In some embodiments,as shown in FIG. 17B, the elastic cross strap is coupled to the mountingfacilities as an attachment point lateral or medial to an anterior pointof the mounting facility. As shown, lower arm 1782 is attached to apoint of the lower mounting facility 1720 at a point lateral to theanterior point of lower mounting facility 1720. Although not required,in these embodiments, the upper and lower mounting facility are separateelements defined by portions of brace elements cooperating with theelastic cross strap.

FIGS. 17C and 17D further illustrate example embodiments as viewed frompositions posterior and anterior to the brace worn on a knee. As shownin FIG. 17C, some embodiments also include an additional guide 1749 and1729 through which the arms of the cross straps pass to help keep thecross straps positioned during use. The guides 1749 and 1729 may be partof the cuffs 1741 and 1721 or they may be part of reinforced guide pads1749P and 1729P as shown. The guide pads may be made of the samematerial as the upper and lower cuffs and be removably or permanentlycoupled to the cuffs.

Referring to FIG. 17 E, the lower mounting facility 1720 comprises alower pad/cuff 1721 which may have interspaced openings 1723 through thethickness of the cuff. As shown, one embodiment of the openings 1723 arethrough holes extending through the thickness of the mounting facilityto increase friction and to allow perspiration to escape from under themounting facility. Also shown in this embodiment are strap buckles 1727to secure the straps 1724 to the mounting facility. Suitable buckles1727 for embodiments include, but are not limited to, those disclosed inpending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/654,476 filed on Oct. 18,2012 and US Pub. No. 20130097826 published Apr. 25, 2013, which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring to FIG. 17F, the upper mounting facility 1740 comprises anupper pad/cuff 1741 with interspaced openings 1743 through itsthickness. The openings 1743, buckles 1747, upper arms 1772, securingstraps 1744 and other similar elements may be configured to functionsimilar to those described for the lower mounting facility.

As shown in FIGS. 17A-17F, the mounting facilities may have openingsthat provide comfort and friction features such as an ability for theskin under the mounting facility to have some exposure to the outsideenvironment and to provide some irregular surfaces on the inside of themounting facility to increase friction with the skin and/orunderclothing. As detailed in FIG. 17E, the openings 1743 may also bealigned in a manner such that the mounting facility still hasnon-intermittent and continuous “strips” of mounting facility material(between and uninterrupted by openings) extending along and in alignmentwith the direction of the resistance force that is put onto the cuff bythe elastic hyperextension cross strap and/or the elastic securingstraps. Arrows 1745A and 1745B show examples of these strips ofcontinuous material.

In some embodiments, when the elastic cross strap is attached to themounting facility at an attachment point that is a distance from theresistance point, the strips of mounting facility material are able tofunction as extensions of the elastic cross strap and extend thematerial providing the resistance force to a more ideal resistancepoint. For example, if the elastic cross strap was to attach to themounting facility on a generally medial or lateral position around theknee of a leg, the continuous strips of mounting facility material mayextend upward or downward from the attachment point to an anterior pointon the leg and allow the resistant point of the brace to be higher andlower on the joint and in a more anterior position. The pads/cuffs mayalso be made from a non-elastic materials or an elastic material,similar to the elastic cross strap that allows the continuous strips toextend the elastic properties of the elastic cross strap. This can bedone consistent with and with similar “strips” of mounting facilitymaterial allowing the mounting facility to provide resistance to theelastic securing straps.

The elastic cross straps may also be configured with openings. Theopenings in the cross straps may provide similar comfort and frictionbenefits as do the openings in the mounting facilities. In addition, theopenings in the cross strap may allow for one design of a strap to havedifferent resistance properties based on the size and/or the shape ofthe openings. For example, a similar elastic cross strap design can bemade to have two resistance properties by having one size openings forone configuration and have less resistance by having larger sizedopenings (across the width of a strap designed to provide resistancealong its length) for another configuration.

FIGS. 17A-17F also show example embodiments of buckles that may be usedto attach or couple the elastic cross straps and securing straps to thepad/cuffs. The example buckles have mating elements with one secured tothe strap and another element secured to the pad/cuffs. The elements onthe straps allow the element to be adjusted along the length of thestrap to adjust the effective length of the strap and therefore alterthe resistance properties of the strap when both ends of the strap areattached to the brace assembly. As shown, the buckles may be arranged atpredetermined angles that correspond to the angles of the strapattachments.

Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, one embodiment of an inner surface ofbrace elements is shown where the inner surface is designed to enhancethe frictional engagement of the brace with the skin or underclothing ofthe user. As shown, the elastic material has a multiple of faced diamondshaped indentations 1806 between a generally planar surface, here aninterlaced flat surface 1807, that increases the friction of the braceelement with the user's skin. The diamond shaped indentations 1806create an irregular surface and an increased surface area of the innersurface against the skin or underclothing. Additionally, theindentations 1806 allow a portion of the skin to occupy some of thespace of the indentation and this irregular surface of the skin alsoincreases the friction of the skin against the brace inner surface. Asshown, the alignment of the flat surfaces 1807 may provide thenon-intermittent and continuous strips of material (along arrows 1845)extending along and in alignment with the direction of the resistanceforce that is put onto the material to extend and/or enhance theresistance properties of the brace assembly elements. FIG. 18B shows across-sectional view of the material of FIG. 18A at section A-A. FIG.18B illustrates the indentations 1806 and the raised surface 1807. Insome embodiments, the indentations may be substituted or combined withthrough hole openings to enhance the frictional engagement of thematerial and to enhance breathability of the cuff and assembly.

These embodiments are capable of providing a dynamic elastic braceassembly that protects the knee by keeping it in an ‘athletic position’protecting the ligaments and allowing the muscles around the knee tostabilize while protecting against muscle atrophy. These embodiments maybe an alternative to taping the joint whereby there is no need tore-apply loose tape between events and no more costly continuous tapepurchases. These embodiments provide an alternative to functional bracesproviding less slippage due to heavy, rigid structures and reduced skilllimitations. Embodiments may provide extension prevention like a rigidbrace but with the comfort and normal control of a taping procedure.Embodiments may be capable of being designed without metal and thereforemay be used in sports that do not allow metal braces.

Embodiments may be less costly, lighter weight, can be loosened betweenbreak times, intermissions and time-outs. Embodiments may controlagainst knee hyperextension; a major cause of ACL tears and failure ofACL surgical repairs. Embodiments may control hyperextension bygradually increasing resistance such that the athlete experiences a“soft stop” which is more comfortable and doesn't shift the brace downthe leg like a normal metal brace with hinges that creates a “hardstop”. Embodiments may mimic taping procedures that have been proven tooutperform expensive functional braces. Embodiments may be lessexpensive and less irritating than repeatedly taping the knee orpurchasing a custom fit or off-the shelf functional brace for sports,thereby increasing the number of athletes of all ages that can protecttheir knee during sports. Embodiments may be used as a training brace byadding a hip rotation strap that will teach athletes how to properlyjump and land without tearing their ACL. Embodiments may be easilyremoved or partially released during short and long rest periods duringathletic events, unlike functional braces that have to remain appliedand often taped in place to prevent slippage. Embodiments may be appliedto all leg shapes and sizes without losing its effectiveness. Many bodytypes and heavy people cannot wear a functional knee brace. Embodimentsmay be used on both knees at the same time for training and preventativeuse.

Embodiments may also increase quadriceps muscle strength because theyprovide resistance to extension. Embodiments may be light weight andeasy to apply. Embodiments may allow the elastic/dynamic cross straps tobe inexpensively replaced after multiple uses or breakage thusmaintaining the active control of knee motions. Embodiments can act asthe foundation to add accessory pieces that will protect against sideblows (hinged lateral paddle), unstable knee caps (lateral buttress), orshin guards for soccer and motocross. Embodiments may be comfortablyworn under pants or athletic gear. Embodiments may be worn during skiingwithout requiring shorter ski boots or shorter less effective braces.

In addition, embodiments may further include additional features suchas, but not limited to: side paddle with a hinge that can be added forlateral support, breathable over-sleeve, hip rotation training strap anddifferent colors.

Embodiments of the elastic brace assembly may be utilized as ahyperextension prevention brace where it may prevent hyperextension ofthe knee during activity, they may be used as a training brace forpractice or game keeping the knee in a “athletic” position, and they maybe used in sports in which braces with any metal can't be used (e.g.,soccer, etc.).

Embodiments of the elastic brace assembly may be utilized as ahyperextension prevention brace with hinges. Embodiments may beunilateral or bilateral. Embodiments may maintain position of brace onthe knee sliding due to the elastic cross straps. Embodiments may beused as post-operative hyperextension prevention for ACL surgery.

Embodiments of the elastic brace assembly may be utilized as ahyperextension patellar-femoral brace. Embodiments may apply a hingeunilaterally or bilaterally with extension stops and the elastic crossstrap design to help position the knee for patellar tracking in thegrove. Embodiments may apply lateral buttress and straps to apply medialforce to the patella.

In other embodiments, the proximal and distal straps may be wider thanshown, about three inches (3″) that wrap around the front and thenattach to help hold the mounting facilities down. In some embodiments,the stabilizing straps also may be longer and wrap around the anteriorof the limb and then attach to help hold the mounting facilities on thelimb. In some embodiments, the elastic cross straps may be moved to themost distal position with the angle of the buckle changed to align withthe direction of the strap. In some embodiments, conform tape may beused on the skin to enhance the interface with the brace.

Although not necessary, in some embodiments of the assembly, theassembly further includes a covering that can be decorative and/or canprovide a sleek/smooth surface for the wearer.

One Embodiment of the Brace Assembly in Operation:

One embodiment of the disclosed inventions will be used to furtherillustrate the operational aspects of the invention. Although theembodiment discussed utilizes an assembly embodiment with a shin shellas the lower mounting facility, it is understood that embodiments of theinvention may be applied to an assembly without a shin shell. For thoseother embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 5, the attachment of the strapson or around the wearer's thigh in a sleeve provides many of the samefunctions as the upper mounting facility described below.

One embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, is usedabout a wearer's knee 105. The brace assembly 100 is initially securedon the wearer's shin 102. This is done by securing the shin shell 121 onthe shin 102 and wrapping the securing straps 124 around the calf. Thissecuring is done at a point of that calf such that the movement of theshell towards the knee is minimized. Once secured on the shin, theelastic cross strap arms 162 and 164 are wrapped behind or posterior tothe knee creating an x-pattern as the cross origin 166 in the poplitealfossa of the knee and then wrapped anterior and around the thigh. Thecross strap arms are wrapped so that one arm wraps from the lowerattachment point 122 laterally, then behind the knee and then medial andupwards to the upper attachment point 142. The other arm wraps from thelower attachment point 122 medial, then behind the knee and them lateraland upward to the upper attachment point 142. Connectors 146A and 146B,such as Velcro, of the cross strap arms 162 and 164 are secured to eachother forming the upper mounting facility 140. The upper arms of thecross strap are attached to matching Velcro fasteners on the cross strapsuch that they create facility attachment point 142 anterior on thethigh. As with the shin shell 121, the placement of the upper mountingfacility 140 is done to minimize the movement of the facility towardsthe knee 105.

Once secured on the thigh 104 and the tibia, the presence of the elasticstraps in the X configuration provides resistance to knee extension andhelps prevent the knee from hyperextension. Hyperextension is preventedby the cooperation of the secured ends of the straps with thepositioning of the straps behind the knee. The elastic properties of thecross strap can provide resistive properties early in the motion arch ofthe joint thereby help control extension early in the motion arch. Asthe joint extends, the elastic straps stretch and provide progressivelymore resistance. When the knee reaches a desired limit, the elasticstraps reach a significant resistance level that prevents furtherextension. This resistance does not provide a hard stop of theextension. By not having a hard stop, brace migration is minimized aswell as the discomfort caused by sudden jerking of the brace when thehard stop if reached. Additionally, this resistance approach uniquelyprovides therapeutic benefits such as increasing neuromuscular controland causing the extensor muscles to gradually strengthen which isbeneficial for joint stability.

The point of attachment, facility attachment points 142 and 122, of theelastic straps and the thigh and tibial pad respectively are such thatthe desired resistance provided by the anterior resistance points allowproper knee movement but prevents hyperextension. Additionally, if thebrace assembly 100 has good frictional contact with the skin, rotationalsupport of the knee joint is also provided. As the wearer uses the braceassembly, and as their need for support and/or comfort changes, theelastic straps can be tightened or loosened to change the elastictension on the system by simply removing and reattaching the straps withthe Velcro attaching means.

The embodiment of FIG. 4 operates similar to FIG. 1. In this embodiment,the elastic cross strap 460 is used to function as both the lowermounting facility 420 and the upper mounting facility 440. This canstart with the elastic cross strap being initially wrapped around theshin 402 of the wearer and crossing the arms around each other anteriorto the shin. Once secured on the shin 402, the same methods describedfor FIG. 1 can be followed to mount the brace assembly on the knee. Inthis embodiment, the anterior resistance points are at points of theelastic cross strap at the front of the wearer's thigh and shin such asat strap attachment points 476 and 486.

The embodiment of FIG. 10 operates similar to the embodiments describedfor FIGS. 1 and 4.

Other Embodiments of the Brace Assembly in Operation:

The embodiments of FIGS. 2, 5 and 6 operate in a similar manner to thoseshown in FIGS. 1 and 4. With the embodiments of FIGS. 2, 5 and 6, theupper and lower cuff or the sleeve is mounted around the knee and thecross strap is attached to the attachment points and adjusted. Theelastic cross straps can be adjusted so that the length of the upper andlower arms between the attachment points is made longer or shorterdepending on the person wearing the brace assembly and the desiredtension. In embodiments, the uprights can be contained within the undersleeve or other covering that connects the hinges to the upper and lowerpad. The placement of the uprights maintain the relative distancebetween the upper and lower pad and therefore help maintain theresistance and support provided by the elastic straps.

The embodiments of FIGS. 7-9 operate similar to those in FIGS. 1 and 4.With the embodiments of FIGS. 7-9, the elastic cross strap can alreadybe attached through the slots in the brace elements or it can beattached as part of putting the brace on by the wearer. The wearer putstheir leg between the cross origin of the elastic cross strap and theportions of the elastic cross strap that become positioned on the frontof the wearer's leg. The brace assembly is positioned so that the uppermounting facility is positioned above the joint and the lower mountingfacility is positioned below the joint. The elastic cross strap is thenadjusted with respect to the side attachment points by sliding the strapin and out of the slots. If necessary, the connectors on the end of thestrap are unconnected to allow more adjustment of the strap. Onceadjusted, the connectors are secured to each other so that the braceassembly is secured around the wearer's leg about the joint and providesthe adequate amount of tension. If provided, the securing strap can beadjustably connected/coupled by a buckle to help further secure thebrace on the wearer's leg. Once secured, the upper mounting facility isable to pivot about the hinge while the cooperation of the cross-originwith other portions of the elastic cross strap help prevent the wearer'sknee from hyperextension.

The example embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12A-12F operate in similarfashion to the embodiments already described. In this embodiment, thewearer positions a sleeve 1296 on the lower leg above the wearer's anklejoint. This may be positioned by sliding a closed sleeve (FIG. 12B) overthe foot and the ankle or it may be positioned by wrapping an opensleeve (FIGS. 12A, 12D-12F) around the ankle joint and closing withclosing means 1297 such as hook and loop type fasteners. The sleeveincludes lower attachment points 1286 that attach two cross straps 1282Aand 1282P with the sleeve medially at the lower attachment points 1286.The unattached ends of the two cross straps are then positioned aboutthe wearer's foot and ankle. One cross strap, the anterior strap 1282A,is brought under the middle of the foot and back over the lateral anklebone and brought behind the leg up to an upper attachment point 1276 onthe sleeve on the lower leg. The upper attachment point 1276 is on aposterior or medial side of the lower leg. The other cross strap, theposterior strap 1282P, is brought under the heel of the foot, over thelateral ankle bone and brought in front of the leg up to an upperattachment point 1276 on the sleeve on the lower leg. The upperattachment point 1276 is on an anterior or medial side of the lower leg.This configuration positions the cross origin 1266 at a location on thelateral ankle bone and creates resistance points for the strap at bothattachment points. To analyze the forces consistent with FIGS. 3A and 3Bin this ankle joint embodiment, the upper attachment point 1276represents the upper point of resistance, however the lower attachmentpoint 1286 may not always define the lower point of resistance. Thelower point of resistance, when the straps are frictionally engaged withthe bottom of the foot, is the point where this frictional engagementsstarts along the strap from the cross origin such as 1286′ and 1286″.For embodiments with a mounting means under the foot as describedearlier, the point at where this mounting means is attached to the strapmay function as the point of resistance.

The embodiments of FIGS. 13A-13B start operation by positioning theframe portion 1396 on the back around the waist joint. Typically, thisis positioned proximal to the lumbar area of the spine. Whetherpositioned already on the frame or separately, the cross strap arms 1382and 1372 are configured on the frame such that the cross origin 1366 ispositioned generally in alignment with, and in the middle of the lumbararea of the spine. In this embodiment, two cross straps extend from thiscross origin, each having an upper arm 1372 and a lower arm 1382. Theupper arm 1372 of a first strap extends up the torso to the rightlateral side and wraps around the front of the wearer. The lower arm1382 of the first strap extends down the torso to the left lateral sideand wraps around the front of the wearer about at a waist position. Thesecond strap has an upper arm extending up the torso to the left lateralside and wraps around the front of the wearer and the lower arm extendsdown the torso to the right lateral side and also wraps around the frontof the wearer about at a waist position. The upper arms can be securedto each other creating the upper mounting facility 1340. The lower armsare also secured to each other creating the lower mounting facility1320.

The embodiments of FIGS. 14A-14D utilize the cross strap to restrict theabduction and external rotation of the shoulder. This is typicallyconfigured by locating the point for the cross origin 1466 in theaxillary fossa of the opposite shoulder. From this point, arms 1482 and1472 extend across the torso and attach at attachment points 1476 and1486 on the upper and lower mounting facilities respectively. Thesefacilities are shown as being positioned on the upper shoulder above thejoint and on the humerus below the shoulder joint. The arms of thestraps are such that a continual strap extends from the upper mountingfacility around the back, through the cross origin and around the frontof the wearer to attach on the lower mounting facility. Another set ofarms extend from the lower mounting facility around the back, throughthe cross origin and around the front of the wearer to attach on theupper mounting facility.

The example embodiments of FIGS. 15A-15B function similar to the kneeembodiments except they are applied to the elbow joint. In theseembodiments, the cross strap is configured such that the cross origin ispositioned to resist extension of the radius and ulna relative to thehumerus. This is typically configured by locating the point for thecross origin in the antecubital fossa of a wearer's elbow and having thecross strap arms extend up and down the arm of the wearer. As shown inthe side view of FIG. 15A, the cross strap arms wrap around the upperpart and the lower part of the arm such that the attachment points areon the opposite side of the arm from the antecubital fossa. In theembodiment shown, the cross strap is also wrapped around the arm to havethat portion of the strap function as both the upper and the lowermounting facilities. FIG. 15B shows a front view of the elbow brace.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A-16B operates similar to the other kneebrace embodiments described above such as described for FIG. 2.Operationally, the cuff brace elements 1621B and 1641B as well as thehinge 1690 may be optionally provided and used to provide additionalsupport for the brace.

The embodiments shown in FIGS. 17A-17F and FIG. 18 operate similar tothe other brace embodiments described above such as described for FIG.2.

For some embodiments, the length of the strap, and the tension put onthe strap when attaching to the attachment points, can be varied to varythe resisting force on the joint utilizing attachment means describedearlier.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and mannerof operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obviousto one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of theprinciples of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications andchanges will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is notdesired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operationshown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications andequivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of theinvention. Although this invention has been described in the above formswith a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that thepresent disclosure has been made only by way of example and numerouschanges in the details of construction and combination and arrangementof parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention.

We claim:
 1. An elastic brace assembly for use by a wearer, the elasticbrace assembly comprising: an upper mounting facility and a lowermounting facility; the upper mounting facility comprising an upper pad;at least one elastic cross strap coupled to the upper mounting facilityand the lower mounting facility; the at least one elastic cross strapfurther forming a cross origin between the upper mounting facility andthe lower mounting facility whereby the at least one elastic cross strapprovides a resistance force to an extension of the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility from the cross origin when thecross origin is positioned in a fossa of a joint of the wearer's joint;and wherein the joint is a shoulder joint whereby the at least oneelastic cross strap provides the resistance force to the extension ofthe upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility from thecross origin when the cross origin is positioned in the fossa of theshoulder joint.
 2. The elastic brace assembly of claim 1 wherein: the atleast one elastic cross strap is coupled to the upper mounting facilityat an attachment point lateral or medial to an anterior point of theupper mounting facility; and the at least one elastic cross strapcoupled to the lower mounting facility at an attachment point lateral ormedial to an anterior point of the lower mounting facility.
 3. Theelastic brace assembly of claim 2 further comprising at least one bucklecapable of removably coupling the at least one elastic cross strap tothe upper pad or a lower pad and capable of adjustably coupling the atleast one elastic cross strap to the upper pad or the lower pad.
 4. Theelastic brace assembly of claim 1 wherein: the upper mounting facilitycomprising the upper pad and an upper strap configured to wrap around anupper limb of the joint; and the lower mounting facility comprising alower pad and a lower strap configured to wrap around a lower limb ofthe joint.
 5. The elastic brace assembly of claim 1 wherein: the atleast one elastic cross strap is coupled to the upper mounting facilityat an attachment point at an anterior point of the upper mountingfacility; and the at least one elastic cross strap is coupled to thelower mounting facility at an attachment point at an anterior point ofthe lower mounting facility.
 6. The elastic brace assembly of claim 1wherein: the upper mounting facility comprising the upper pad and anupper strap configured to wrap around an upper limb of the joint andsecure the upper mounting facility to the upper limb; and the lowermounting facility comprises a lower pad and a lower strap configured towrap around a lower limb of the joint and secure the lower mountingfacility to the lower limb.
 7. The elastic brace assembly of claim 1wherein: the upper mounting facility comprising the upper pad and anupper strap configured to wrap around an upper limb of the joint; thelower mounting facility comprising a lower pad and a lower strapconfigured to wrap around a lower limb of the joint; the upper strap andthe lower strap are made of an elastic material; and the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility are coupled with a hinge. 8.The elastic brace assembly of claim 1 wherein: the lower mountingfacility comprising a lower pad; and the upper pad and the lower padeach having an inner surface and an outer surface; the upper pad and thelower pad each further comprising a plurality of through holes extendingfrom the inner surface through the upper pad and the lower pad to theouter surface to provide further frictional engagement of an upper limband a lower limb of the wearer.
 9. The elastic brace assembly of claim 1wherein: at least one end of the at least one elastic cross strap iscoupled to the upper pad on a lateral side of the upper pad; the lowermounting facility comprises a lower pad; and at least one end of the atleast one elastic cross strap is coupled to a lateral side of the lowerpad.
 10. An elastic brace assembly for use by a wearer, the elasticbrace assembly comprising: an upper mounting facility and a lowermounting facility; the upper mounting facility comprising an upper pad;at least one elastic cross strap coupled to the upper mounting facilityand the lower mounting facility; the at least one elastic cross strapfurther forming a cross origin between the upper mounting facility andthe lower mounting facility whereby the at least one elastic cross strapprovides a resistance force to an extension of the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility from the cross origin when thecross origin is positioned in a fossa of a joint of the wearer; thelower mounting facility further comprises a lower strap configured towrap around a lower limb of the joint; and wherein the joint is an anklejoint whereby the at least one elastic cross strap provides theresistance force to the extension of the upper mounting facility and thelower mounting facility from the cross origin when the cross origin ispositioned lateral to the ankle joint.
 11. The elastic brace assembly ofclaim 10 wherein the at least one elastic cross strap is coupled to theupper mounting facility at an attachment point lateral or medial to ananterior point of the upper mounting facility.
 12. The elastic braceassembly of claim 10 wherein the at least one elastic cross strapcoupled to the lower mounting facility at an attachment point lateral ormedial to an anterior point of the lower mounting facility.
 13. Theelastic brace assembly of claim 10 wherein: the at least one elasticcross strap is coupled to the upper mounting facility at an attachmentpoint at an anterior point of the upper mounting facility; and the atleast one elastic cross strap is coupled to the lower mounting facilityat an attachment point at an anterior point of the lower mountingfacility.
 14. An elastic brace assembly for use by a wearer, the elasticbrace assembly comprising: an upper mounting facility and a lowermounting facility; the upper mounting facility comprising an upper pad;at least one elastic cross strap coupled to the upper mounting facilityand the lower mounting facility; the at least one elastic cross strapfurther forming a cross origin between the upper mounting facility andthe lower mounting facility whereby the at least one elastic cross strapprovides a resistance force to an extension of the upper mountingfacility and the lower mounting facility from the cross origin when thecross origin is positioned in a fossa of a joint of the wearer; andwherein the joint is an elbow joint whereby the at least one elasticcross strap provides the resistance force to the extension of the uppermounting facility and the lower mounting facility from the cross originwhen the cross origin is positioned in the fossa of the elbow joint. 15.The elastic brace assembly of claim 14 wherein the at least one elasticcross strap is coupled to the upper mounting facility at an attachmentpoint lateral or medial to an anterior point of the upper mountingfacility.
 16. The elastic brace assembly of claim 14 wherein the atleast one elastic cross strap coupled to the lower mounting facility atan attachment point lateral or medial to an anterior point of the lowermounting facility.
 17. The elastic brace assembly of claim 14 wherein:the at least one elastic cross strap is coupled to the upper mountingfacility at an attachment point at an anterior point of the uppermounting facility; and the at least one elastic cross strap is coupledto the lower mounting facility at an attachment point at an anteriorpoint of the lower mounting facility.
 18. An elastic brace assembly foruse by a wearer, the elastic brace assembly comprising: an uppermounting facility and a lower mounting facility; the upper mountingfacility comprising an upper pad; at least one elastic cross strapcoupled to the upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facility;the at least one elastic cross strap further forming a cross originbetween the upper mounting facility and the lower mounting facilitywhereby the at least one elastic cross strap provides a resistance forceto an extension of the upper mounting facility and the lower mountingfacility from the cross origin when the cross origin is positioned in afossa of a joint of the wearer; and wherein the joint is a lower backjoint whereby the at least one elastic cross strap provides theresistance force to the extension of the upper mounting facility and thelower mounting facility from the cross origin when the cross origin ispositioned posterior to the lower back joint.
 19. The elastic braceassembly of claim 18 wherein: the at least one elastic cross strap iscoupled to the upper mounting facility at an attachment point lateral ormedial to an anterior point of the upper mounting facility; and the atleast one elastic cross strap coupled to the lower mounting facility atan attachment point lateral or medial to an anterior point of the lowermounting facility.
 20. The elastic brace assembly of claim 18 wherein:the at least one elastic cross strap is coupled to the upper mountingfacility at an attachment point at an anterior point of the uppermounting facility; and the at least one elastic cross strap is coupledto the lower mounting facility at an attachment point at an anteriorpoint of the lower mounting facility.